As we all know from experience, getting started is
sometimes the most difficult part of any task. Fortunately, most of the items
on the maintenance checklist are neither time consuming nor difficult. In
addition to the information provided in this newsletter, there are excellent
reference books at your local library or home improvement store on the subject
of homecare and maintenance.

STEP 1: Assemble the required, proper tools and
supplies. Being prepared before you begin will save time later!

STEP2: Get organized and plan your approach to
accomplishing the tasks at hand.

CAULKING MAINTENANCE

Most building materials are subject to varying degrees
of shrinkage and settlement, as well as normal expansion and con­traction, caused by changes in climate and humidity.

Frequent inspection and maintenance of the caulking on
the exterior of your home and in the tubs, sinks and showers inside your home
will protect the finishes surrounding these typically wet areas. The following
is a suggested checklist of some of the areas of your home that require
caulking and subsequent maintenance:

CAULKING MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST

INTERIOR:

__bathtubs

__vanities
tile

__showers

__trim

__sinks

__drywall

__countertops

EXTERIOR:

__windows

__siding/brick

__doors & sidelights

__flashings/copper
roofs

__wood trim

__porches/columns

__wood bay &
box windows

__vents

__garage
doors/

Time and weather will dry and shrink caulking so that
it no longer provides a good seal. Normal expansion, contraction and settlement
will cause caulking to separate. As part of your routine maintenance, check the
caulking in the above areas periodically and make timely repairs as needed.

Caulking compounds and dispenser guns are available at
local hardware stores. Read the manufacturer's instructions carefully to be
certain that you select an appropriate caulk for the intended purpose. As a
homeowner, you should choose caulking wisely and apply it properly and
consistently. Wise use of caulk will protect your home from damaging elements
and maintain its beauty for years to come.

AVOID ELECTRICAL HAZARDS

If a GFI receptacle is not functioning press the Reset
button on the wall plate to restore proper operation. If that does not work
check and reset the circuit breaker in the panel box first, then press the GFI
Reset button. If the outlet still fails it may indicate a short in the
appliance. If other appliances will not operate in the outlet an electrician
should be contacted and the GFI replaced.

FIRE SAFETY

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are perhaps the
most important components of your electrical system. While they are wired
directly into your home's electrical system, most models include a battery
back-up. A chirping sound indicates that the battery is weak and needs to be
replaced. Safeguard your family and guests by replacing all your smoke and
carbon monoxide detector batteries ANNUALLY.

Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors regularly
by pushing the test button on each unit. The alarm should sound. If it does
not, call for service immediately.

A FAMILY FIRE PLAN:

Every family should develop and periodically review
their fire plan. How do you all get out safely in the event of a fire? Where do
you meet outside the home? You may want to contact your local fire department
for general fire safety infor­mation for
assistance.